The star of the Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team, Lexy Keys, turns down offers of an incredible $5.4 million to stay with the Sooners.
In a world where athletes often chase the allure of substantial financial offers, Lexy Keys, the standout guard for the Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team, has chosen a different path. Despite receiving an impressive $5.4 million offer, Keys decided to remain with the Sooners, demonstrating her dedication to her team, community, and personal growth.
Early Life and High School Achievements
Born and raised in Tahlequah, Oklahoma, Lexy Keys showcased her basketball prowess from a young age. At Sequoyah High School, she led her team to two Class 3A state championships and earned numerous accolades, including All-State honors from The Oklahoman and the Tulsa World. Her high school career statistics were remarkable, with averages of 16.4 points, 4.8 assists, 4.2 steals, and 3.6 rebounds per game.
College Journey: From Oklahoma State to Oklahoma
Keys began her collegiate career at Oklahoma State University, where she quickly made a name for herself. Over three seasons, she played in 88 games, starting 71, and averaged nearly 30 minutes per contest. Her shooting ability was evident as she made 130 three-pointers and was one of only nine Big 12 players to record 45 treys, 110 rebounds, and 60 assists in a single season.
In 2023, Keys transferred to the University of Oklahoma, bringing her talents to the Sooners. In her senior season, she started all 33 games, averaging 8.4 points, 2.6 rebounds, 2.3 assists, and a team-high 1.5 steals per game. Her shooting was exceptional, leading the Big 12 with a 46.7% three-point shooting percentage in conference play.
One of her most memorable moments came on February 28, 2024, when she hit a game-winning three-pointer with just four seconds left to defeat No. 3 Texas 71-70, clinching the Big 12 title for the Sooners.
The $5.4 Million Offer
Despite her success at Oklahoma, Keys received a lucrative $5.4 million offer from a professional team. However, she chose to decline the offer, citing her commitment to her teammates, her academic pursuits, and her desire to continue developing as a player and person within the Oklahoma community.
Legacy and Impact
Lexy Keys’ decision to stay with the Sooners speaks volumes about her character. She has become a role model for aspiring athletes, demonstrating that success isn’t solely measured by financial gain but by personal growth, loyalty, and the impact one has on their community.
As she continues her journey, Keys remains a testament to the values of dedication, integrity, and passion for the game. Her story serves as an inspiration to many, proving that sometimes, the most rewarding choices are those that align with one’s core values and long-term goals.
